After signing the partnership between Nokia and Microsoft , seven months were enough to give birth to the first Nokia smartphone shipping Windows Phone 7.5 . The mobile will be a family resemblance to the Finnish brand aficionados: the Lumia takes 800 lines of N9, but embeds this time Windows Phone 7 instead of MeeGo. If indeed “new” falls a little flat (even if the N9 is very recent), we can still rejoice in the news. The N9 has made ??a strong impression on the material! Successful conversion for Nokia?
Lumia Nokia 800
Key Features
Operating System Windows Phone 7.5 Mango
Processor / speed Single-core 1.4 GHz
(Qualcomm MSM8255)
Memory / Storage Internal Storage: 16 GB
RAM: 512 MB
No SD expansion
Screen technology and definition
Multipoint capacitive touch screen 3.7 inch
ClearBlack 480 x 800
Camera 8 megapixel autofocus with LED flash (opening to 2.2)
GPS Yes
FM Radio Yes
Battery 3.7 V 1450mAh non-removable
Dimensions 116.5 × 61.2 × 12.1 mm
Weight 142 g (with battery)
Design and components
The simple design of Lumia 800 (almost identical to N9) is particularly successful. Profile lines are simple and fly. Not to waste anything, the first impression of the visual is reinforced by the flawless finish implementing materials that inspire confidence. Smartphone in hand, we immediately understand that we are dealing with a high-end device.
Nokia has nothing to learn from the best in this area: the manufacturer confirms the excellent expertise in hardware design. Moreover, even if the terminal is robust, the manufacturer provides a silicone case for excellent craftsmanship in the basic package. An excellent initiative that we welcome to see more often in competition.
The screen AMOLED capacitive multi ClearBlack (480 x 800) is also attractive. Even with a maximum brightness, the darkness is so deep that it is impossible to distinguish the edges of the matrix LCD black frame that surrounds it! All this gives a futuristic effect. One gets the impression that the matrix LCD gives life to an object that seemed inert. Effect guaranteed!
Lumia 800 from the front: the impression of quality everywhere. We also note the striking contrast of the matrix 3.7-inch AMOLED ClearBlack: united blacks can not be distinguished from the part of the screen! However, we regret still the lack of objective video front.
On the technical side, there is a Qualcomm MSM8255 processor clocked single heart at 1.4 GHz which provides a gain of 400 MHz OMAP 3630 compared to that fitted to the twin brother of Lumia 800 (N9). Still no double heart, reflecting the lack of support for these processors for Windows Phone 7.5. On the other hand, divide the amount of memory by two compared to N9: it will be satisfied with 512 MB of RAM. It will not panic if: not content to be very responsive and smooth, the Lumia 800 overcomes the heavy tasks (Web, GPS navigation) without showing weakness!
The RAM is not alone in having been on a diet: for storage, only the 16GB model is available while the N9 is available in 16 versions and 64 GB Finally, the design choices are walking in the footsteps Apple: it is impossible to expand the memory via Micro SD card and the battery is not removable.
The photo and video capture (720p) is based on an 8 megapixel sensor (Carl Zeiss) providing an opening to 2.2). Not found, however, the objective front of N9.
For communications, the GSM module circuit is completed by a Wi-Fi (b / g / n) with a compatible chip Bluetooth 2.1 A2DP . Again, we note the lack of NFC chip from its twin in MeeGo, but we can not say that she will be missed.
Telephony layer
No problem to report on the quality of telephone conversations. Whether moving into the ear, or through the headset, caller and called can benefit from quality sound. Two small points still on the helmet. First, we regret still the lack of remote volume buttons. Next, we must not rely too much on a possible attenuator noise when the wind picks up, or in noisy environments, the conversation will be greatly disrupted. On the software layer this time, Windows Phone 7.5 shows satisfaction.
Internet
Windows Phone 7.5 requires this Lumia 800 to acquire a mobile browser based on Internet Explorer version 9.0. The presence of heart with a single processor 512 MB of RAM left some doubt cast on Web performance. Fortunately, they dissipate very quickly.
In this area, the Lumia high as 800 peaks while rising at a Galaxy S2 or 4S iPhone , no less! The heavy sites displayed almost instantly and scrolling page are made with a smooth flawless! The usability is also enhanced with automatic resizing of paragraphs with a double tap.
The Web browser appears at ease on Lumina 800
Multimedia side, still no flash in the program, but the HTML 5 is supported … provided that the resolutions and sampling rates of videos are not too high.
In contrast, requires Windows Phone 7.5, we always regret the button “search” is exclusively associated with Bing. Can not choose Google without putting hands dirty by grinding the registry of the phone (after taking care to unlock.) In other words, the handling is not addressed in the first quidam really.
Capture photos and video
On the high end, Nokia has made a habit of treating the layer photo. This Lumia 800 departs there to the rule? Good news, we must recognize that the 8-megapixel camera (Carl Zeiss optics, aperture F 2.2) produces images of excellent craftsmanship! On average, 4 / 3 to 8 megapixels, the Lumia 800 generates. JPG approximately 1.6 Mb with a resolution of 3264 x 2448. In photo, Lumia 800 manages to do better than S2 Galaxy (although the colors are less intense), but do not be hoisted at an iPhone 4S. Lumia The 800 still offers a good performance in teasing the best camera phones on the market, which is not an easy reference!
Lumia 800: a camera phone quality!
The performances are with go, now see if the software layer manages to keep pace. Again, Nokia does not disappoint by offering many options. We can Geotagger clichés or enable video effects (black and white, sepia, negative, solarize). Nokia also proposes to take control of some parameters of shooting. For example, several preset white balance are available. You can also customize the exposure value, or change the sensitivity (100 to 800 ISO). Sharing opportunities have not been forgotten: the photos can be sent on Facebook or SkyDrive (25GB free of charge).
The good performance of the party are confirmed by video camera. Although the Lumia 800 fails to surpass the 720p (1080p for the Galaxy against S2 and iPhone 4S), the result is up to the expectations. MP4 AVC files of 1280 x 720 (29.9 fps) are fluid and net.
Music and radio: the choice of weapons!
Zune: Windows Phone 7.5 requires the Lumia 800 offers a Zune player that can be used for audio as the video. In this regard, we recall that, like the iPhone, it will be essential to go through a synchronization software ( Zune Desktop ) to send their favorite music tracks to the internal memory of 16 GB (no mass storage mode is proposed by Phone Windows 7.5). For a phone of this caliber, we also regret the total lack of audio profiles.
Zune music player
Red card for Microsoft that could integrate this functionality with Mango, or that Nokia may well have add via software (HTC had done well with Mozart, for example ). For now, it is not entitled to a second chance because the application “Nokia Music” (we shall return), which has yet strong assets is also silent on the EQ tone!
Another drawback, although the quality of the helmet is not to blame, it was expected to still be able to have a remote volume control on the headset. A detail for some, a lack for lovers of hands-free calling.
Nokia Music: We come back this time on the second application of the musical legacy Symbian Smartphones: Nokia Music is not dead it is found through a Windows Phone! First, the application is able to exploit the music tracks in sync with Zune Desktop. Both say that this is not the most interesting feature, since it simply clone Zune without filling gaps (no EQ tone).
Nokia Music: a radio module which must shade the Zune Pass!
The truth is out there as Nokia Music offers three features appendices, two of which alone the trip! First, the program provides access to many radio streams (web streaming) sorted by genre. If the idea is hardly new (Zune, Deezer, Spotify), the 800 Lumia offers unlimited free access to an entire catalog of more than 12 million titles! What to do in the shadow of the famous Zune Pass charged € 9.90 per month ( full details here ), even if the subscription of Microsoft is not limited to the service.
While it is impossible to choose the title you want to listen, and aficionados Shoutcast (iOS or Winamp on Android) retoqueront the radio module does them no good. Nevertheless, the initiative is noteworthy, even if the objective is primarily mercantile, in order to direct fans to the online store to validate the purchase of individual tracks (rates broadly similar to iTunes or Zune). Finally, we appreciate the presence of a location-based module capable of indicating the list of concerts to be played close to its GPS location. However, it is impossible to book a place via the program.
FM tuner 800 of Lumia
FM tuner: If all the tools offered by Lumia 800 were not enough, you can always fall back on the RDS FM tuner that works great as long as the wired headset (which then acts as antenna) is connected. The interface is minimalist, but the application still manages a list of favorite stations. However, the recordings (in mp3 format, for example) were not provided.
A word about video playback back to top
The Zune player is not limited to audio. It can also be used to read sequences have been captured with the mobile and video synchronized with software Zune Desktop . Let us briefly recall the strength of the program: unlike iTunes, Zune Desktop can automatically convert many formats to make the video compatible mobile.
GPS offers: an asset for the tandem Nokia / MS?
While comprehensive GPS solutions are billed at a rate significant. Out of the box, the Lumia has 800 native bases allowing it to run Nokia Drive, a free navigation solution (voice guidance and visual). Aficionados will recognize a port of Windows Phone 7 Nokia Maps , an application become free soon after the acquisition of Navteq by Nokia in October 2007.
Nokia Drive: an undeniable asset, even if the program is still in its infancy
To use the application, simply download and install the map data (about 20 minutes with Wi-Fi n for a map of US from 476 MB) in the first use of the terminal. Once this is accomplished, Nokia Drive can then be used without an Internet connection, as a tom-tom, Navigon and Sygic (by the way, multitasking Mango is well managed). More good news but not least: the GPS sensor is able to achieve an almost instant fix, even in poor conditions (in a building near the window). Good at all.
However, it is important to know that the version of Nokia Drive came with our test device can not stand the comparison with these giants of navigation. If the bet to propose a simple and accessible is undoubtedly successful, it is also due to the almost total lack of configuration options! With this release, it is not even possible to avoid highways and / or tolls! Exit also recalculations and other alternative routes in case of road block. Absent other significant: the info traffic yet present with Maps on Symbian. We also note the absence of text to speech, even if the female voice is very pleasant. Do not draw a bitter attack on Nokia, it would be surprising if these features do not point the tip of their nose quickly. Asked about the issue, an official indicate that the equipment available at the output (November 15) will receive a Nokia version of Drive most successful.
Nokia Drive: little or no options on our test device.
Nokia Maps
The phone also comes with Nokia Maps. Broadly, it is a mapping software ‘pedestrian’ similar to Google Maps. Compared to the Google service, Nokia Maps has still a little originality since mode “transit” views complement the classic “map” or “satellite”.
Nokia Maps: a sort of Google Maps
This feature is not limited to the simple display of tracks: once one starts calculating a route, these modes are offered in addition to traditional modes pedestrian and car! Nokia Maps is proposing a similar functionality to Metro , which is pretty significant! However, for pedestrian tracking, we regret the lack of posting on the position in the smartphone space (compass mode).
Integration of transport
The data sheet does not indicate the presence of a digital compass. The latter is still present since the applications “compass” function available on the Market to perfection. Let time to time, recall that the application is still in beta stage.
Transferring contacts back to top
With this utility, the Finn again proves its efforts to improve software. “Transfer Contact” is available from the applications menu. The program is for people who want to get the address book of their old phone without using a computer (Outlook synchronization, for example). To do so, the tool establishes a Bluetooth link to “suck” the valuable information.
Transfer Contact: the idea is good, but the operation remains uncertain
If the idea is great, in practice, Bluetooth illustrated again for its inflexibility and miscommunication. Here, it happens that we battle and be forced to reboot the system when the layer Bluetooth refuses to cooperate. At other times, the Lumia able to quickly access the address book target (iOS or Android, for example). These concerns are likely to be erased with the arrival of an update.
App highlights
App also highlights some specific applications provided by Nokia. In this case, there is not, however, climb the walls because it is simply a tool highlighting the best programs available on the Marketplace (or most popular). Nokia offers three classifications that filter programs to install priority, beating of the heart and the best games.
Highlights App
Little fun feature: you can shake the mobile to scroll through the suggestions proposed by App highlights. In short, the application is a little overlap with the Market Place, which already provides a good exposure to popular programs. Nevertheless, it still appreciates the push notifications that can be activated when a new program is suggested.
Battery Life
In this area, the Lumia 800 really does not shine. Like other Windows Phone (HTC HD7, HTC Mozart), the Nokia mobile is closer in the bottom. Please note that this assessment does not provide information on the standby that is the subject of a second test of moderate use on a day. The other event approaching a more practical use indicates that it will not count too much to use the Lumia 800 more than a day and a half between charges. The mobile heater sometimes quite significant (energy loss) and again, even if the deal is not dramatic, we expected better results.
Conclusion
All observers were waiting at the turn of the Lumia 800. Stalled on the high-end touchscreen, Nokia had to send a strong signal to get back on track. Let’s not beat around the bush any longer, this new mobile born of a partnership with Microsoft achieved the goal with flying colors!
However, this did not seem 800 Lumia put the odds on his side. We refer to the air of deja vu that mitigates the effect surprise (chassis N9), technical characteristics down compared to competition (single heart, memory, capture 720p max), and a few teething problems of Windows Phone 7.5. These arguments can be removed one by one.
N9 or not, even if it is above all a matter of taste, design is a great success. As we approach the subject, it is impossible not to mention the exemplary finish and the use of materials that exude quality. About the lack of simple heart, we must remember that only the user experience is authoritative. In this area, Lumia interface is characterized by a seamless flow. The terminal also manages to run heavy applications (Web, GPS) without flinching … what more?
Finally, it was essential to differentiate a Windows Phone 7 competition which was struggling to differentiate themselves (specifications imposed by Microsoft, and features nearly identical). Once again, the bet is successful. First, Nokia treats the hardware by offering a digital camera quality surpassing that of the Galaxy S2 (which is not an easy reference). Efforts will also experience with the software layer, since Nokia has already ported its two GPS applications (pedestrian traffic)! While the programs have yet to improve, but they are nonetheless perfectly functional. We also like Nokia Music that brings a lot of surprises from Zune.
In short, if you are tired of IOS and / or Android and looking for an alternative offer, or simply if you are looking for a good phone, please consider the case of the 800 forward Lumia .
Related articles
- Nokia’s first Lumia 800 software update begins to roll out (winrumors.com)
- Nokia Lumia 800 review: solid hardware marred by Windows Phone 7 (dvice.com)
- Nokia preparing Lumia 800 update for Windows Phone 7740 and battery improvements (winrumors.com)
